Rate My Service Luke 10:25-37

How well do those on the margins believe we -- who are in the "good neighbor" business -- are doing?

At a Glance

It doesn't matter how good the product, if the service is bad, we're not likely to buy. This is why customer service is so important, and why most businesses clamor for feedback. Restaurants, hospitals, hotels and even airports desire our opinions. Some airports want to know what we think of their toilets. This growing trend leads us to ask -- with a nudge from the parable of the good Samaritan -- what people metaphorically, or perhaps, literally, lying on the roadside think of our service. A smiley face or a frowny face?

Editors' Pick

For material based on this same gospel reading, see "The Bad Samaritan," July 11, 2010, at HomileticsOnline.com.

At the end of a meal at a restaurant, the server will often give some instructions along with the check. "Please complete our survey about your visit today by going to this website." She circles a URL on the receipt, and continues, "If you do, you will receive a coupon for 10% off your bill on your next...